Discover Florida: why the state needs to be your next holiday destination

One of America’s most-visited tourist destinations, the permanently sun-drenched state is hardly a well-kept secret. With over 1,000 miles of coastline, you’ll be able to find your own near-deserted beach, or take a trip dolphin-spotting in the Gulf of Mexico. From art walks to artisan markets, space launches to tropical mangroves, Florida has it all – the only problem will be how to fit everything into one trip. Stylisthas teamed up with British Airways and Visit Florida to give you some destination inspiration…

Have a day at Daytona Beach

Enjoy Daytona’s golden sandy beaches

Daytona Beach area beaches are some of Florida’s best and quietest – try Neptune Approach and Ponce Inlet and you may well have them all to yourself. If you’re in the need for speed, Daytona International Speedway is the home of NASCAR. Can’t catch a race? Then try the daily behind-the-scenes tours. Locals love the Daytona Flea and Farmers Market, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Friday night’s antiques and produce market on Artisan Alley in DeLand is also a must-visit. Best pack an extra suitcase for all your finds.

If you eat one thing: The Key Lime Pie donut from Donnie’s Donuts.

Check out some art in St. Pete/Clearwater

Explore the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg

With rooftop bars, farm-to-fork restaurants and an eclectic mix of indy boutiques and cafes, Downtown St. Petersburg (or The Burg, as it’s affectionately known), is a hub for laid-back creatives. The Dali Museum is a huge draw for art-lovers, but you can also get your design fix outdoors, with street art proudly displayed on every available wall. As the sun sets, take in the Pier 60 Festival, a nightly sunset celebration that takes place in Pier 60 Park on Clearwater Beach.

If you see one thing: Shine, the St. Petersburg Mural Festival, is a one week-long Instagram opportunity that runs in October.

Get a dose of nostalgia at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

Be a big kid at Walt Disney World Resort, Florida

It doesn’t matter how old you are – it’s impossible not to feel like a kid at any of Walt Disney World’s six Parks. Of course, the fact you’re not a kid means you can also enjoy all the other stuff, too – from Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, to the Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park’s 120-feet Summit Plummet (the fastest freefall body-slide in the world), to Disney Springs’ outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex where you can enjoy the selection of cocktail bars and boutiques.

Don’t miss: Book FastPass+ so you can skip the waiting times in the Disney Parks, meaning you can max out your shopping time. FastPass+ is included with your ticket.

Explore the art scene in Greater Fort Lauderdale

Cruise the waterways of Fort Lauderdale

Those born and bred in Greater Fort Lauderdale are extremely proud of their shop local ethos, and it’s easy to see why as it means a thriving food and art scene has sprung up here. The newly launched Art Fort Lauderdale takes advantage of the waterways that make the city the ‘Venice of America’, ferrying art-lovers to private mansion galleries by boat. The coffee-obsessed will love the cafes and roasteries – Ann’s Florist and Coffee Bar on Las Olas is the prettiest place to sip a macadamia nut latte – and the Everglades is right on the doorstep.

If you book one thing: Cruise around the canals on the water taxi.

For your chance to win a trip to Florida for you and a friend,click here